Galaxy

13 Sept 2014

Frank Lampard struggles on Manchester City debut


After thirteen years as one of Stamford Bridge's favourite sons, Frank Lampard stepped out in a Manchester City shirt for the first time as his new side faced Arsenal at the Emirates.
Chelsea fans will no doubt still be getting used to the fact their all-time top goalscorer is plying his trade for a title rival and unfortunately for Lampard, the feeling seems mutual.
The 36-year-old stuggled to keep up with the pace of Arsenal's bustling midfielders during his first bit of action since being hauled of at half time by Jose Mourinho against Norwich in May.
Lampard, as always, was calm and considered in possession as he ticked things along next Fernandinho in the heart of City's midfielder.
However, the Chelsea legend's main issue came when Arsenal were counter-attacking. It was here that Lampard looked like a man still trying to catch his breath as he made several fouls before being shown a yellow card for a late lunge on Aaron Ramsey.
Lampard spent the majority of his Chelsea career on the left side of the central midfield position, but didn't seem as comfortable with such a role on Saturday, often finding himself too far out wide.
The former Blues star did almost earn a delightful assist after he passed through the legs of Laurent Koscielny and onto David Silva, but the ball was cut out and it was to be the highlight of a disappointing 45 minutes for Lampard.
Just as Mourinho brought the veteran off as Chelsea struggled against Norwich last season, City boss Manuel Pellegrini made the cut-throat decision that Lampard's City debut wouldn't extend the half-time break.
With City ahead after a first half goal from Sergio Aguero, Samir Nasri replaced Lampard in a change that may well signal the end of his time in the Premier League.

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